Judging proper distances and selecting the correct golf club for that distance is one of the most important parts of playing a round. A wrong club choice can put you in a hazard, put you out of bounds, or leave you well short or well long of your target area.
Woods are becoming increasingly popular because they are lofted woods that are more easily controlled off the tee and from the fairway or rough. It is also much easier to hit the ball longer distances with a fairway wood than it is to do it with a standard iron.
Over the next few days, Getting to Scratch will introduce several distance guides. We thought we would start out by putting a quick one together regarding woods. Remember, there are always variables involved (wind, weather, etc) but for the most part, if you are able to hit the ball properly, then the following distances will apply. Feel free to print this guide out and take it with you.
*These distances are specified for the amateur golfer.
Woods
Driver: 200–240 yards (183-219 m). This is the longest and most powerful club in your bag. The favorite club choice off the tee, though not always used.
3-Wood: 190-220 yard (174-201 m). This is the standard fairway wood used for long distances while still in the fairway. Also used off the tee, and is a safer more controllable club option.
5-Wood: 170-190 yards (155-174 m). The 5-wood is better utilized for carry instead of distance. This is also a nice club choice if you are in the rough and are still sitting a good ways from the green.
7-Wood: 160-180 yards (146-165 m). A very controllable club. Most bags don’t have this, but it is a nice club to have considering it has become very popular as a club that can be used to “escape from trouble.”
Check out our other distance guides:
Distance Guide: Special Clubs